Lilly Barels

LILLY is a funky, fun-lovin’ yogini. She started her journey on the yoga mat as a dancer, trying to heal injured ankles and knees, but found the therapeutic effects of the practice transcending the physical benefits. She graduated from UCLA with a double major in neuroscience and world dance, but decided to pursue studies in alternative medicine rather than the Western medical school track she had planned on since kindergarten. She trained to become a yoga instructor with the renowned Steve Ross in LA before moving to Hawaii, where she completed a three-year program called Sacred Path Healing. Here, she studied the chakras and energy fields, learned how to use medicinal essential oils for aromatherapy, and turned her attention inward to focus on connection with a higher consciousness. She is passionate about balancing the scientific side of yoga instruction with vital subtle energetics. She blends anatomy and physiology, a conscious asana practice, and meditation to create a holistic approach for uncovering the divine spark within–and usually plays loud music just to keep things interesting. Besides teaching weekly classes, she has led several Teacher Training programs on Oahu and is a Lululemon Ambassador. She currently blogs about yoga for Huffington Post and is finishing an MFA in Creative Writing. Her yoga DVD, Peace of Vinyasa, is available on Amazon or at the Co-Op.